THE PRESENT STATUS OF THE PROBLEM OF THERMAL BURNS

Abstract

"The present summary (covers) the period 1942-1944 inclusive, except where previous writings have attained an increased importance or are subject to an altered interpretation in the light of recent developments." Author''s summary: Some of the more important local alterations and processes in burns considered in this article include necrosis, edema, increased lymphatic flow, separation of burn sloughs, and healing and regeneration. General problems discussed include the use of morphine and anesthesia; burn shock, toxemia, anemia and hypoproteinemia; plasma and Na therapy; the influence of environmental temp. on recovery, and certain metabolic and endocrine relationships in burns. Burns form a prime example of a type of trauma with marked local and widespread general effects. In considering either the mechanism of any alteration associated with burns or the treatment of any phase of burns, both the local traumatic lesions and the general disturbances of the burned patient must be considered. Burn therapy should be a continuous process with correlation of the local, general, and skin-grafting phases.